Vanessa Marin (YouTube) explains that diminishing sexual/romantic desire in long-term relationships is partly biologically inevitable: the intense early-stage neurotransmitter surge (dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine) — likened to cocaine-level dopamine — typically lasts about one to three years, then shifts toward oxytocin and vasopressin which promote bonding and security. She notes brain chemistry isn't the whole story and briefly advises reprioritizing intimacy and adding adventure to reignite connection.
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Get unready with me while we talk about why desire fading in a long term relationship is not only completely normal, but actually biologically inevitable. When you first start dating your partner, the neurotransmitters in your brain, we're talking things like dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters go wild. The dopamine levels in your brain are similar to somebody who is high on cocaine and it's that intense. But that stage can only last one to three years maximum. @ that point, the dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin get replaced with oxytocin and vasopressin which are designed to help us relax and bond. You shift into creating a secure, strong, lasting foundation for your relationship. Now, brain chemistry isn't the entire picture. There are other reasons why desire can fade in a long term relationship, but think it's really useful to know that your brain is physically incapable of maintaining that level of desire longer than one to three years. If you're looking for ways to reignite the spark, reprioritize intimacy and bring some adventure and excitement and connection back into your relationship, then follow me for.